Student Housing Tampa, FL

Tampa is a popular student city, with international students attending top universities such as the University of South Florida (USF) and the University of Tampa (UT). The city is known for combining coastal charm with high-profile buildings, creating an ideal environment for students who want to study. In addition, one can easily find student housing in Tampa through University Living. The accommodations we list include great amenities such as resort-style pools, 24/7 fitness centers, rooftop terraces, quiet study spaces, game rooms, and yoga studios.

Every student housing USA here is located in a safe, well-lit area with security features, including CCTV surveillance and electronic access controls. One can easily choose from studios, ensuites, non-ensuites, and shared apartments. With several popular areas having occupancy rates above 95%, some of the best student apartments in Tampa include The Province, Avalon Heights, and Venue at North Campus. Their prices start at $495 per month, and many of them offer an all-inclusive rental package that covers utilities like Wi-Fi, water, and trash, making student living in Tampa affordable.

Also known as the “Cigar City”, Tampa provides a mix of historic and modern architecture. While living here, you will see Mediterranean Revival styles with red-tiled roofs and arched walkways. Plus, there are several Tampa student apartments with glass facades, smart layouts, and resort-style amenities. These apartments are conveniently located near major transit routes and the scenic Riverwalk, offering great access to campus and the city's nightlife. These properties also combine study and socializing, with features such as high-tech lounges and rooftop pools. When you look deeply into this, you will find that student housing in Tampa, FL is divided into two types:

Student Housing (PBSAs): Especially designed for students, the rent for these types of accommodations is all inclusive. This means that utility bills, such as electricity, water, and trash, are bundled into a single monthly payment. It is further divided into four types:

• Ensuite Rooms: These come with a private bedroom and an attached bathroom. The living and kitchen areas are shared with other flatmates, providing a balance of privacy and social interaction. It is priced between $210 to $320 per week.

• Studios: As self-contained units, they come with a bed, bathroom, and kitchen. They are ideal for those who like independence and privacy. Majority of them fall between $350 and $550 per week.

• Non-Ensuites: Perfect for those looking for an affordable Tampa student apartment, these come with a private bedroom, while sharing bathroom, living area, and kitchen facilities with other students. They cost between $190 and $250 per week.

• Shared Apartments: If you have a close-knit friend circle and are okay with sharing a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area with them then these are for you. The starting price for them is $175 per week.

Private Apartments: Functioning as traditional homes, these usually include a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, and living room and do not include utilities in the rent. But with the high level of independence and ability to choose non-student neighborhoods, it is a popular option amongst students and couples who want to live together.

With a population of around 414,547 residents, Tampa is a rapidly growing city on Florida’s west coast. Home to some of the best universities such as the University of Tampa (UT), the city enrolls more than 11,000 students every year. The Hillsborough River and popular attractions like Busch Gardens define it. Tampa’s economy thrives in areas like Cybersecurity, Marine Science, and Finance. About 46% of adults here hold their bachelor’s degree. Over the past few years, the city has witnessed a 21.3% drop in crime, making it a safer city for international students.

Furthermore, Tampa has a 66.1% labor participation rate and over 35,000 internships are posted for UT students alone, making it a prime city for both living and career opportunities. Popular neighborhoods for Tampa student apartments include Hyde Park and New Tampa, making student living in Tampa both secure and professionally rewarding.

Choosing the right type of student housing in Tampa, Florida means that you will be able to combine studying with a fun and lively atmosphere. Often, these student accommodations offer amenities such as volleyball courts, parking, and high-speed internet. Residents also enjoy all-inclusive pricing and individual leases, making it easier for them to manage their finances. These properties are secure with 24/7 emergency maintenance and are located near campus shuttle routes, so you’re always close to your classes and social spots. Most of them ranges between $749- $1545/month. Some of the top student apartments in Tampa include:

• The Province

• Avalon Heights

• Venue at North Campus

• Station 42

• The Dawson

• Oak Ramble

• South Pointe

Check out your ideal student home and book your room in Tampa today!

The average cost of living for a student in Tampa is between $2,100 and $3,100 per month, depending on your lifestyle and choice of student living Tampa. Compared to cities like Miami and Orlando, Tampa offers a more affordable cost of living, making it a great choice for students on a budget. Your monthly costs will mainly depend on your housing choice, with many Tampa student apartments including utilities in the rent to simplify budgeting. Following is the detailed breakdown of estimated cost of living in Tampa, FL:

For a more personalized budget estimate, students often use the University Living’s Cost of Living Calculator.

As a city, Tampa celebrates outdoor culture through the scenic Riverwalk and "Champa Bay" sports pride. This welcoming and sunny atmosphere makes it an ideal place for those who like balancing intense study sessions with a lively social scene. It is one of the main reasons why student housing in Florida is so popular. Following are some of the best areas to live in Tampa:

• South Tampa (Hyde Park, Palma Ceia, Beach Park): As one of the most premium areas in the city, it is known for its streets, large oak trees and the famous Bayshore Boulevard. Having the world’s largest continuous sidewalk of 4.5 miles, this area also includes Hyde Park Village. It is a popular open-air spot for luxury shopping and dining, with places like On Swann and Buddy Brew Coffee. For students, it is a great location because it is only 1-3 miles from The University of Tampa, which means a 5-10-minute commute. Rent of the student housing in Tampa, Florida here is higher due to its popularity, with one-bedroom apartments costing around £1,650 to £2,30 per month.

• Seminole Heights: Known as Tampa’s “cool” and creative area, it is famous for its restored 1920s bungalows and strong food and craft beer scene. The vibe here is artistic and relaxed, with popular places like Rooster & the Till and The Independent Bar and Cafe. It is located about 4–6 miles north of downtown and The University of Tampa, which takes around a 10–15 minute drive, and about 6 miles from University of South Florida. This area is more affordable compared to South Tampa, with monthly rent usually between £1,250 and £1,750 ($1,600–$2,200) for apartments or guest houses.

• Westchase: A planned residential area that feels like a small town within a big city, it is known for clean streets, green spaces, and walking trails. The centre of the area is Westchase Town Center, which has cafes, bars, and shops in a walkable setting that feels safe and family-friendly. It is located about 14–17 miles northwest of downtown Tampa, which means a 25–35 minute commute to The University of Tampa and around 20 minutes to the USF campus. The cost of living here is medium to high because of its premium lifestyle, with one-bedroom apartments costing around £1,450 to £1,900 per month.

Tampa has made significant improvements to its transportation system to help its large student population. This has made getting around Tampa without a car easy, thanks to its campus-specific transit services and the city's historic downtown lines. This makes student living in Tampa more affordable. The city's main transport hubs include the Marion Transit Center for regional travel and the scenic 2.6-mile Tampa Riverwalk for walking commuters. The TECO Line Streetcar is also a popular option, with a record 1.33 million trips. Below are some of the major transportation options for students:

• The USF Bull Runner: It is a free shuttle service that is especially made for students studying at the University of South Florida. Running six different color-coded routes, it mainly connects the campus with nearby Tampa student housing. Its routes A and C are the most popular, which passes through places like the Marshall Student Center and the Morsani College of Medicine every 10-15 minutes during peak hours. The service is completely free for students with a valid USFCard and runs until midnight on weekdays and 5:30 PM on weekends, making it a safe and cost-free way to travel to places like the Moffitt Cancer Center and nearby apartments.

• Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) Local Bus service: Helping students travel across the city, The 400 MetroRapid route connects the Marion Transit Center in downtown to the University Area Transit Center. This fast route takes about 35 minutes to reach USF, with buses arriving every 15 minutes. A normal one-way ticket costs around $2.00, but USF students can ride free with the U-Pass program, while other students can buy a 31-day pass for about $48.75, making it an affordable option for those living far from campus.

• The TECO Line Streetcar System: It is a unique and free transport option that connects Ybor City and the Channel District. Stoping at popular places like the Florida Aquarium, this is especially useful for students at The University of Tampa, as the Whiting Street station is just a short walk from campus. The streetcar runs every 12 minutes during the day and continues until 11:00 PM or later on weekends, and it is completely free for everyone.

• Coast Bike Share: Offering a bike-sharing system with 300+ e-bikes placed around The University of Tampa and the downtown Riverwalk. It is perfect for short “last-mile” trips, allowing students to travel from student housing to places like the Sykes College of Business in under 10 minutes. Students can get a special membership for about $7.00 per month, which includes 60 minutes of daily ride time, making it a cheap and easy way to avoid traffic.

Tampa is a top travel destination that combines its "Big Guava" heritage with exciting modern entertainment, contributing over $8 billion to the economy each year. The city's culture mixes Cuban influence in Ybor City, coastal relaxation along the Riverwalk, and a strong sports identity with "Champa Bay," which features three major professional teams. For students, Tampa offers affordable outdoor activities and high-end attractions, all while experiencing a 21.3% decrease in crime in 2025, making it a safe and welcoming place for those living in student housing in Tampa. The city's key landmarks include:

• Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: A 335-acre African-themed park with thrilling roller coasters like Iron Gwazi and one of North America's largest zoos. Entry costs $89 - $135, but students often get discounted passes through USF or UT student portals.

• The Florida Aquarium: A research hub with over 7,000 aquatic plants and animals in a 500,000-gallon coral reef gallery. Entry is around $30 - $35, offering a deep dive into Florida's marine ecosystems.

• Ybor City Historic District: A National Historic Landmark where you’ll find brick-paved streets, cigar-rolling traditions, and vibrant nightlife. It’s free to explore, and students often use the fare-free streetcar to get to Ybor City from downtown.

• Tampa Riverwalk: A 2.6-mile waterfront trail that connects popular spots like the Heights Public Market and Sparkman Wharf. It’s free to access and perfect for students who want to enjoy outdoor fitness or sunset views.

• ZooTampa at Lowry Park: A top-rated zoo known for its conservation efforts, focusing on Florida’s manatees, panthers, and black bears. Entry is $45 - $50, offering students an educational experience on wildlife conservation.